Consumer Flyer - Latex Decay

Latex is, an adhesive material applied by a carpet or rug manufacturer to anchor tufts to the backing, giving additional weight and to holding the backing onto the rug.

Latex starts to deteriorate as soon as it is put into service, similar to the rotting of automobile tires and rubber bands. The breakdown is caused by gases in the air, floor waxes, traffic and sunlight.

A complex mixture, latex contains many chemicals affecting both its wear properties and cost...